Chelmsford Prison has been recognised for its performance by officers within the prison service.
Its deputy governor, Mike Poselay, claims the prison and youth offenders' institute have been listed as the fifth best in the country after making consistent improvements.
The institute was credited for its security provision strategies and drug-testing measures, in a weighted score card assessment which forms part of key performance indicators.
Mr Poselay added Chelmsford Prison had risen in status to become a level-three prison, second only to level-four prisons, which are the best. This time last year it achieved level two.
"In August last year we were the 128th worst prison in the country, now we are the fifth best," he said.
Published Thursday August 5, 2004
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article